Last Updated on September 1, 2023 by Daniel Osakwe
Best switcher for live streaming
| Product | Features | Where to buy (New) | Where to buy (pre-owned) |
| Roland VR-4HD
|
Video Inputs: HDMI Type A x 4, | Video Outputs: HDMI x 2 | Get it on Amazon | Get it on eBay |
| Blackmagic ATEM Mini
|
Video Inputs: HDMI type A x 4| Video Outputs: HDMI type A x 1 | Get it on Amazon | Get it on eBay |
| YoloLiv YoloBox
|
Video Inputs: HDMI type A x 2, USB type A x 1| Video Outputs: HDMI type A x 1 | Get it on Amazon | Get it on eBay |
| Roland V-1HD
|
Video Inputs: HDMI type A x 4| Video Outputs: HDMI type A x 1 | Get it on Amazon | Get it on eBay |
| Feelworld Livepro L1 V1
|
Video Inputs: HDMI type A x 4| Video Outputs: HDMI type A x 1 | Get it on Amazon | Get it on eBay |
| Blackmagic ATEM Mini Pro
|
Video Inputs: HDMI type A x 4| Video Outputs: HDMI type A x 1 | Get it on Amazon | Get it on eBay |
Live streaming video is the biggest need for businesses. Live streaming video services help you stream your content to thousands of viewers simultaneously, with custom social media integration and live chat. If you are looking for the best switcher for a live streaming service that can provide you with better flexibility and faster loading speed, then check out the six options we’ve reviewed below.
Table of Contents
The 6 best live stream video switchers
It is a competent video switcher with six video inputs and four-channel switching for all-encompassing control. It can handle 18 channels of audio and video input and blends audio well. The VR-4HD is an improvement above the standard stereo small 3.5mm jacks in that it supports both XLR and RCA Phono audio connections for professional use. It can be operated stealthily in low-light conditions thanks to its illuminated buttons and audio level monitor.
See our review: Roland VR-4HD High-Definition AV Mixer
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent hardware controls | Heavier than some others |
| Faders and touchscreen | Pricey |
Blackmagic ATEM Mini
Video Inputs: HDMI type A x 4| Video Outputs: HDMI type A x 1| Audio Inputs: Stereo mini-3.5mm x 2| Audio Outputs: N/A embedded audio only| Max video resolution/refresh rate: 1920 x 1080/60Hz| Max audio sampling rate/bit depth: 48kHz, 24 bit
Due to its small size, the ATEM Mini may be used in even the smallest spaces. Another advantage is that the host may easily and covertly switch between video streams in tiny studios because of the device’s size and the big, tactile buttons. When handling numerous cameras for wide, close-up, and interviewee angles, it works fantastically for interviews. However, using the USB webcam output to stream live directly to social media platforms requires specialized streaming software.
Digital video effects (DVE) such as picture-in-picture and video transitions like fade, dip, wipe, DVE squeeze, DVE push, and graphic wipe are helpful. Transition duration can be adjusted separately on the ATEM Mini in increments of 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2. It has 20 stills in the media pool for titles and can also do the green screen chroma key.
See our review: Blackmagic ATEM Mini
| Pros | Cons |
| Compact, ergonomic design | Can’t live stream directly to social media from the device |
| Incredible value for money | Does require additional hardware |
YoloLiv YoloBox
Video Inputs: HDMI type A x 2, USB type A x 1| Video Outputs: HDMI type A x 1| Audio Inputs: Stereo mini-3.5mm x 1| Audio Outputs: Stereo mini-3.5mm x 1| Max video resolution/refresh rate: 1920 x 1080/60Hz| Max audio sampling rate/bit depth: 48kHz, 16 bit
For individuals who want to manage video productions from a single device, including broadcasting and live streaming directly from the device without the need for additional gear, YoloBox from YoloLiv is the ideal video switcher. The YoloBox can broadcast directly to social media sites and simultaneously on various channels because of its integrated battery, built-in 4G LTE connectivity, and free premium software features.
Additionally, overlays can be used in split-view and side-by-side views to add extra channel branding, logos, watermarks, and rolling captions to the footage. It can handle a variety of events and live production circumstances, whether in a studio or on location when combined with up to 128GB of storage and a 5200mAh battery with a quick-charging USB 3.0 connector.
See our review: YoloLiv YoloBox
| Pros | Cons |
| In-built 4G LTE support for on the go | No buttons can make it tricky for some to control |
| Massive screen for easy monitoring | Only 2 HDMI inputs |
Roland V-1HD
Video Inputs: HDMI type A x 4| Video Outputs: HDMI type A x 1| Audio Inputs: RCA Phono (L, R) | Audio Outputs: RCA Phono (L, R) | Max video resolution/refresh rate: 1920 x 1080/60Hz| Max audio sampling rate/bit depth: 48kHz, 24 bits
With four HDMI inputs and an audio mixer that can manage up to 12 channels, the V-1HD is made to be small and easy to use. The interface is cluttered due to its focus on buttons and switches, but everything is organized well and caters to those who prefer physical, tactile inputs over touchscreens. The gadget doesn’t have an internal preview screen monitor, but it may be controlled remotely via USB or MIDI interfaces.
Video switching is made simple by the lighted buttons, smooth T-Fader, and dedicated pot for setting output fade to white or black. A BPM (beats per minute) sync feature enables automatic switching between Program and Preview at the right music pace. It also offers automated video switching that can be customized to 1-120 second ranges.
| Pros | Cons |
| T-fader for ultimate control | Simple design, no screen |
| 4 HDMI inputs and a 12-channel audio mixer |
Feelworld Livepro L1 V1
Video Inputs: HDMI type A x 4| Video Outputs: HDMI type A x 1| Audio Inputs: Stereo mini-3.5mm x 1| Audio Outputs: Stereo mini-3.5mm x 1| Max video resolution/refresh rate: 1920 x 1080/60Hz| Max audio sampling rate/bit depth: Not stated
The Livepro L1 V1, a jack-of-all-trades, aims to tread water in two directions by including buttons and a T-bar fader control with an integrated preview LCD screen to facilitate video switching. With the Livepro L1 V1 showing as a webcam for straightforward broadcast management as with most video switchers, live streaming is available via computer.
Unfortunately, users are forced to use the integrated audio through USB or an external audio mixer/interface to manage levels and effects on numerous audio sources because there is only one stereo mini-3.5mm audio input. However, you would anticipate the need for extra gear like this at this pricing point.
| Pros | Cons |
| Simple interface | Only one audio input |
| Built-in preview screen | Design too minimalist for some |
Blackmagic ATEM Mini Pro
Video Inputs: HDMI type A x 4| Video Outputs: HDMI type A x 1| Audio Inputs: Stereo mini-3.5mm x 2| Audio Outputs: N/A embedded audio only| Max video resolution/refresh rate: 1920 x 1080/60Hz| Max audio sampling rate/bit depth: 48kHz, 24 bit
The Blackmagic ATEM Mini Pro, the smaller brother of the Mini, includes everything the Mini has plus a little bit more. With the onboard ethernet connection, it can stream directly to social media sites like Twitch, YouTube Live, etc., record directly to a USB flash disk in H.264 format, and has a 4-camera multiview.
The ATEM Mini Pro is a broadcast-quality switcher with additional buttons for recording and streaming control, including output selection buttons that change the video output from either a camera, program, or multiview.
| Pros | Cons |
| Recording to USB flash disk | No integrated screen |
| Directly stream to social media platforms from the device | More expensive than the standard Mini |
Buyers Guide: How to Select the Best Video Switcher
The type of material you’re producing, the devices that are connected, your budget, and the manner in which you intend to distribute your content will all influence the ideal video switcher for you. We’ve selected the top seven features below to give you an idea of what to look for.
Inputs
Ensure that all of your recording equipment can connect to the switcher you chose. To ensure that all of your cameras can connect at once, check the number of inputs that can be connected to a switcher. Professional video cameras and camcorders are more frequently connected to video switcher gear for video switching. Webcams are typically utilized with a software video switcher. Make sure your cameras are compatible if utilizing hardware. Make sure the software you’re running is compatible with the webcam model.
Outputs
How are you going to distribute your content? Have a clear understanding of how you’ll broadcast your material and the outputs you’ll want before selecting a video switcher. You can easily connect to a TV, projector, or other pieces of equipment for broadcasting material thanks to HDMI and SDI outputs. It is significantly simpler to connect your video switcher to a computer for content streaming when it has a USB output.
Display Screen
All video switcher programs have a “multiview” feature that enables you to concurrently view all of your inputs on your computer screen. If you don’t intend to use the video switcher with a PC or other piece of video monitoring equipment, make sure it has a display screen. You may preview all of your video inputs simultaneously on an LCD screen so you always know which camera to use.
Video Quality
Any switcher should always have its video quality checked. A lot of switchers have an encoder, which will preserve your video’s quality while streaming live footage. Find out the supported video quality as well as the input compatibility of a switcher. Most contemporary switchers contain HDMI inputs, which enable the capture of high-quality video content.
Price
The switcher you select for your setup will be heavily influenced by your equipment budget. There are switchers available with low quality or low cost, but more sophisticated functions will cost you a little more. Before you start looking for a switcher, be sure of your budget. If you’re a beginner or have a limited budget, you might want to start with a free switcher application.
Type of Controls
Make sure the switcher you select offers every control you require. Some video switchers have the ability to conduct other video editing tasks and mix audio. Select a video switcher with all of these control options if you require the ability to quickly add effects or switch between numerous audio sources.
Effects
Your videos can benefit from production-quality additions like special effects. If your footage requires effects, pick a video switcher with all the features you need. Picture-in-picture, transitional effects, and green screen capabilities are just a few of the effect options available on many video switchers.
Frequently asked questions
What Purpose Serves a Video Switcher?
A video switcher is in action whenever you notice the field’s angle change while a game is being played or the camera moves from the interviewer to the interviewee.
While filming, you can move between cameras and camera angles thanks to video switchers. They are used in numerous productions, such as athletic events, newscasts, and interviews.
Systems for switching between cameras can range in complexity from a two-camera setup to a 10+ camera operation. Switchers provide you the ability to watch various video inputs and choose the one that best illustrates your point.
What Does a Switcher Do in Video Production?
A switcher is a piece of equipment or software used in video production that enables a director or producer to track and switch between various camera angles. Switchers have long been utilized in recording studio environments. As in-home recording setups become more complicated, they have become more popular among content producers.
What Is a Streaming Video Switcher?
Similar to how a director would utilize a switcher in a recording studio, streaming video switchers are used for video editing.
By pushing a few buttons, content producers can switch between various webcams and other input sources. Because they allow you to add live effects to your video to increase the production value, video switchers are also excellent for streaming. Encoders are frequently seen in software switchers to guarantee high-quality streaming video data.
Final Verdict
So, whether you’re looking for the best video switcher for church or an HDMI switcher, I bet you’ve already found what you were looking for. be that as it may, you can get more options by simply clicking on this link.
